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5 Signs You Should Visit The Dentist

Many of you would have been afraid to visit the dentist as a child, as there is an association of visiting the dentist with pain. However, regular dental check ups will not only improve your appearance, but your health as well. So, how do you tell when you should visit the dentist?

Here are some ways to tell:

1) You have crooked teeth.

If you have been suffering from crooked teeth all your life, it’s time to get some braces! Braces help you to align your teeth over time by applying constant pressure on your teeth, to pull it into the desired position. With some effort and consistency (with retainers), you’ll be able to achieve that perfect smile! For those who are concerned about their appearance while wearing braces, there are alternative types of braces which are less noticeable, i.e. invisible braces.

2) Your teeth are turning yellow.

This means that plaque is building up on your teeth! Plaque is a sticky substance formed from leftover food particles and saliva, as well as bacteria mixed in your mouth. After meals, food particles could get trapped in your teeth and the bacteria that reside around your teeth will feast on it. It produces acids that damage the coating of your teeth. In this scenario, prolonged damaging of your teeth’s coating can lead to holes being formed, also known as cavities. By going for regular dental check ups, your dentist can help you remove the plaque build-up on your teeth.

3) You broke or chipped your tooth.

This is an immediate problem that requires immediate attention. A broken/chipped tooth can affect you in several ways. Firstly, your ability to chew may be affected. Secondly, it is not aesthetically pleasing, as it is very noticeable when you smile. Lastly, internal bleeding in your gum may occur. This is one of the few situations where there is urgency to visit the dentist. By seeking treatment quickly, instead of extracting the tooth, the chances of saving your tooth will be higher.

4) Your gum is swelling up and turning red.

If you notice that your gum is redder and more swollen than usual, this could be a sign of inflammation. Inflammation is likely caused by gum disease, which is caused by an extensive buildup of plaque around your teeth such that it invades the gum as well. You may have persistent bad breath or have a bad taste in your mouth, and bleeding of the gums could also occur. However, fret not as it is treatable and can be prevented by going to the dentist regularly for cleaning and check up, which leads us to the next point.

5) You want to be reassured that your dental hygiene practices are paying off.

So, you have been brushing your teeth and flossing twice a day. However, you are unsure if your gum and teeth are in tip-top condition. Well, a trip to the dentist would save you the pondering! A dentist would be able to let you know the state of your gum and teeth, as well as providing guidance and insights into the available treatments if it happens that your dental condition is not at its prime.

So there you have it, 5 ways to know that it’s decision time for you to see the tooth fairy.

Do check out our other articles for more information on dental-related care!